Personal requirements for a Photographer

Interest in contemporary styles and trends in graphics, architecture and fashion is an advantage

Education & Training for a Photographer

You can work as a photographer without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.
Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications and you may like to consider a VET course. Applicants may be required to submit a folio of work and/or attend an interview. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.
You can also become a photographer by completing a degree in photography or photo media. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with English. Applicants may be required to submit a folio of work and/or attend an interview. Access to a suitable camera is also required. Photography courses usually have high materials costs and entry is highly competitive. Institutions have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

Tasks

Working from a studio, and transporting and setting up equipment at assigned locations.

Studying requirements of assignment and selecting type of camera, film, filter and lighting.

May make enlarged prints, and mount and frame prints.

Consulting with clients to determine objectives of photographic assignments.

Manipulating images using digital imaging techniques and creative darkroom techniques such as adjusting exposure and development times.

Mixing photographic chemicals, processing film and developing prints.

Measuring light levels and determining exposure.

Adjusting lighting and filters to accentuate highlights and colours.

Working conditions for a Photographer

Photographers stand most of the time and often carry heavy equipment. They may work on location or in a studio and can spend long periods of time in front of a computer doing post-production work. While most modern photographers use digital cameras, some may choose to use film and either develop photographs themselves in a darkroom or send the film to specialised photographic processors.

Employment Opportunities for a Photographer

Most photographers are self-employed and receive work on commission from advertising agencies, graphic design studios, and retail, manufacturing and service companies. They also receive commissions from printing houses, architects and the public for weddings and portraiture. A small number work as photojournalists.